Edinburgh Things To Do And See

Edinburgh is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland, and with its beautiful landscape and its historical and cultural sites, it’s no wonder why so many people decide to visit this stunning city. The city of Edinburgh is filled with things to do and see, and if you’re visiting for the first time, it can be overwhelming to try to figure out what to do and where to go. To help you out, here is an in-depth look at the best things to do and see in Edinburgh.

Historical and Cultural Sites

Edinburgh is full of historical and cultural sites, from its castles and cathedrals to the grandeur of the National Museum of Scotland. One of the must-see sites is Edinburgh Castle, a huge fortress standing on a volcanic rock, which has been the home of Scottish kings since the 12th century. The castle is also the site of the famous Edinburgh Military Tattoo, one of the world’s most spectacular events. Another must-see is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. The palace is also the home of Scotland’s royal family and is open to the public.

The National Museum of Scotland is another must-see, with its vast collections of objects and artworks from around the world. The museum is located in the heart of the city and is home to a number of historic and scientific artefacts. Other popular sites include St Giles’ Cathedral, The Real Mary King’s Close, and the Royal Yacht Britannia.

Activities

Edinburgh has a plethora of activities to do, from taking a walking tour of the city to visiting some of its famous pubs. There are plenty of walking tours available, from the popular Harry Potter Tour to the Literary Tour, which takes you around some of the sites from the famous novels. You can also take a city bus tour, which takes you around the city and provides an overview of some of its major attractions.

If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, there are also a number of activities available, such as kayaking along the Forth Estuary, mountain biking in the Pentland Hills, or even ghost tours through the city’s haunted alleyways.

For those looking for something a bit more relaxed, there are plenty of pubs and restaurants in Edinburgh, where you can sample the city’s signature dishes and sip on a pint of local craft beer. There are also some great shopping opportunities, with the Royal Mile being one of the best places to pick up a souvenir.

Accommodation

Edinburgh has a wide range of accommodation to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxury 5-star hotels. You can also find a range of Airbnbs in the city, with something to suit all budgets.

Additional Tips

When visiting Edinburgh, it is important to remember that the city can get quite cold in the winter, so it’s best to bring warm clothing. It is also important to remember that the city is very hilly, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes.

Travelling around the city is easy, with plenty of buses, trams, and taxis available. If you’re looking to save money, there are also plenty of bike hire options available.

It is also important to remember that Scotland is a part of the UK, so make sure you have the correct currency, as the pound sterling is the official currency in Scotland.

When visiting Edinburgh, make sure you take the time to explore the city’s many nooks and crannies – you never know what you might find. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and spectacular scenery, Edinburgh is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is a stunning city filled with plenty of activities and attractions to explore. Whether you’re looking for history and culture, adventure, or simply want a chance to relax and explore the city, Edinburgh has something for everyone. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and spectacular scenery, Edinburgh is certainly a city worth visiting.

An Insider’s Guide to Edinburgh: Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences

Edinburgh is a city of great charm and character, with a rich and fascinating history, as well as a vibrant cultural scene. Whether you are interested in exploring hidden corners, sampling the local cuisine or delving into the city’s past, Edinburgh has something for everyone. In this insider’s guide, we will uncover some of the most interesting and lesser-known experiences that Edinburgh has to offer.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While Edinburgh is home to some fantastic attractions, such as Edinburgh Castle, St Giles’ Cathedral and the Royal Mile, the city has so much more to offer than just the usual tourist spots. For example, why not take a stroll around Dean Village, a tranquil oasis of traditional stone buildings and babbling rivers, hidden away in the heart of the city. Or head to the Scottish Parliament building, a stunning modernist structure that is both a political hub and architectural masterpiece. Finally, we recommend visiting the hidden gem that is Greyfriars Kirkyard, the final resting place of some of Edinburgh’s most famous citizens.

Dining Spots: A Culinary Journey Through Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city that takes its food seriously. From traditional dishes such as haggis, neeps and tatties to modern Scottish cuisine, there is something to suit every taste. For an authentic experience, head to Edinburgh’s oldest pub, The Sheep Heid Inn. The pub dates back to 1360 and serves up hearty dishes such as Cullen Skink and the famous Mince and Tatties. And for something truly unique, try the deep-fried Mars bar, a uniquely Scottish delicacy that is infamous around the world. But Edinburgh also offers more refined dining experiences, for example, The Kitchin, which offers Michelin-starred cuisine made with the finest local ingredients.

Cultural Experiences: Exploring Edinburgh’s Traditions and Customs

Few cities in the world can match Edinburgh’s rich cultural scene. Home to the world-renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival, as well as countless other festivals celebrating literature, music and art, there is always something going on in the city. However, Edinburgh’s cultural heritage is just as impressive. Take in a show at the iconic Usher Hall or explore the National Galleries of Scotland, which boasts an impressive collection of art from around the world. And for music lovers, a visit to the famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, which has been wowing audiences with its unique blend of music and military precision since 1950, is a must.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from Edinburgh’s Past

Edinburgh has a rich and fascinating history, with countless stories to uncover. One of the most intriguing is the story of Mary King’s Close, a collection of underground streets and alleyways that were once home to Edinburgh’s poorest citizens. Today, visitors can take a tour of the close and learn about life in 17th century Edinburgh. Another interesting spot is the Surgeon’s Hall Museum, a unique museum that explores the history of surgery and medical science.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions: Unforgettable and Unique Experiences

For those looking for something truly unique and unforgettable, Edinburgh has plenty of options. You could take a whisky tasting tour, exploring Edinburgh’s rich history of whisky production and enjoying some of the finest drams Scotland has to offer. Or how about taking a ghost tour of the city, exploring the eerie alleys and dark corners of Edinburgh’s Old Town, and hearing tales of ghosts and ghouls that haunt the city to this day. Finally, for a truly unique experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the city, providing a bird’s eye view of Edinburgh’s stunning architecture and beautiful countryside.

In conclusion, Edinburgh is a city that is both rich in history and culture, but also packed with hidden gems and unique experiences. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, this insider’s guide has something for everyone. We hope that by exploring these lesser-known spots and experiences, you will fall in love with Edinburgh and all it has to offer.